Gary Lineker ‘to leave the BBC this week’ after antisemitism row
Guardian2 days
Gary Lineker to Leave BBC After Claims of Antisemitism
Above: Gary Lineker after Crystal Palace's 1-0 win during the Emirates FA Cup Final match between Crystal Palace and Manchester City at Wembley Stadium on May 17, 2025 in London, England. Image copyright: Robin Jones/Getty Images Sport via Getty Images
The Spin
Left narrative
Lineker may have made a mistake, but that doesn’t make him anti-Semitic. He should be proud of standing up for what he believes is right, even when it came at a personal cost. Speaking out on Gaza and other human rights issues isn’t bias, but rather shows courage that should be commended. Although his time at the BBC has prematurely come to an end, Lineker has gained the freedom to speak his mind without compromise.
Right narrative
Lineker’s exit from the BBC was long overdue; sharing an antisemitic post was just the final nail in the coffin. He’s long acted like the rules don’t apply to him, hiding behind activism while ignoring broadcasting standards. It is positive to see the BBC for once defending its fundamental principles, and Lineker is finally facing the consequences for his uneducated moral grandstanding.